Used RV Values

Used Versus New Recreational Vehicles

One of the main reasons people seek previously owned RVs rather than new ones is price. Just like with cars, recreational vehicles depreciate over time. If you aren't determined to own a brand new camper, you can save a significant amount of money by purchasing a vehicle that has some miles on it.

It's important to keep in mind that RVs are designed to be used for quite some time. Even well used campers are often excellent bargains for those looking for a way to get into a motor home or trailer without having to spend a lot of money. Whether you're looking for your first camper, or you're searching for a luxurious home away from home on four wheels, you can find a great value that will last for many years when you opt for a used RV.

Many times, people who choose to purchase new recreational vehicles do so because they want to specify the exact custom features they desire. Many luxury motor home dealers custom build each coach, ensuring a completely personal vehicle for the original owner. When you purchase a used RV, you don't get to pick and choose the exact features of your camper. However, you might come across an excellent bargain on a previously owned unit that has everything you desire.

Finding Used RV Values

A good place on the Internet to find used RV values is the NADA RV Buying Guide. Remember that apples to apples comparisons can be difficult when shopping for recreational vehicles. RVs can have many different options and no two RVs are usually the same.

When you're looking for a used RV, it's a good idea to start out by looking in your local area. You might get lucky and find the perfect camper listed in your local newspaper, or in a regional RV buying guide publication or website. If you don't find something in your home town, you might need to expand your search across your state, or even nationwide.

Shopping for Used RVs

If your local classified advertising listings don't include the perfect camper for you, it's a good idea to check out websites that specialize in advertising used RVs for sale. A few sites you'll want to visit include:

• RV Trader Online
• RV Hit
• Recreational Vehicle Trader
• RV Sales For Sale By Owner
• The Motor Home Directory
• RV Motor Homes Online

Consignment RV Sales

You might have good luck finding a unit for sale on consignment through a dealership rather than finding one listed for sale by an individual owner.

According to Timothy Lowry, Marketing Manager for North Trail RV, "When you’re buying an RV that has been consigned with an RV dealer like North Trail RV there can be several benefits that you don't get when buying a used RV from an individual."

Benefits of buying a consignment RV include:

• An RV on consignment with a dealer usually has been thoroughly inspected. Problems or maintenance issues (if any) have been identified. Quotes to upgrade or repair the problems are noted. Full disclosure to potential buyers is made prior to purchase. A good RV dealer will tell the current owner if the RV cannot be sold in its current condition without proper repairs, etc.

• Buying a consigned RV through a RV dealer, in most cases (depending on the age of the RV) will allow the RV buyer to get a mechanical break down contract from the RV dealer's business department.

• The RV dealer's reputation is on the line. An individual selling his RV has your money and didn't promise you any kind of warranty. If it breaks down the next day, you're out of luck and fixing it is your problem.

Is a Used RV Right for You?

You are the only person who can decide if purchasing a used recreational vehicle is in your best interest. If you're concerned with getting the best value for your money, it's certainly a good idea to investigate all the available options.